Travel across the mountain lying down, or 'Kaibab' as the Paiute Indians called it. The Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway, a scenic route beginning at Jacob Lake, will take you through the pine, fir, and aspen trees of the Kaibab National Forest and leave you gazing in wonder on the edge of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Of course, the road does end there, so you will need to retrace the Byway back to Jacob Lake, camp out under the stars, or enjoy a delicious meal and stay at Winchester's Kaibab Lodge. Go further north and stop at Jacob Lake, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and many other outdoor adventures.On your way to and from the Grand Canyon, be sure to experience the wonder and recreational opportunities waiting for you in the Kaibab National Forest. The forest abounds with areas that are perfect for hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, and picnicking. There are also plenty of developed and primitive campsites for your overnight stay. If you are traveling during the winter, be aware that the Byway will be closed to traditional vehicles; however, you can still enjoy this scenic route on snowmobiles or cross-country skis.

To avoid long lines at the entrance gate, enter the park before 10 am or after 2 pm as the park is very busy. Please make arrangements for accommodations and special activities in advance. All roads are winding and steep. You may come upon cows, deer, logging trucks, road construction, or visitors stopping to take photographs, so please drive carefully.

There are many winter precautions that you can take to ensure that you enjoy your travels along this Byway. Driving can be very difficult between Nov. and April. The route through the North Rim section of Grand Canyon National Park is closed between Nov. 15 and May 1. In spite of this, snowmobiles, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are allowed on the route south of Jacob Lake. Most roads are not maintained during the winter. SR 67 is closed from mid-December to mid-May. However, Hwy 89A is plowed and maintained year-round.

There are also many summer precautions that you can take. Arizona's climate is dry and hot, so be sure to carry plenty of water. Losing your footing on a hike can be easy and dangerous. Wear proper footwear to minimize the risk of serious injury. Also, be careful when taking photographs, and always stay on the trail.

There is also the danger of fires, lightning, and flash floods. Ridgetops seem to receive the most lightning strikes. Unexpected flash floods can occur in dry washes as a result of upstream thunderstorms. Fire restrictions are imposed throughout the forest during high fire-danger periods. Please check with the North Kaibab Ranger District Office for current fire conditions or restrictions.

The Grand Canyon National Park North Rim section is seasonally closed during the winter from November 15th to May 1.

Best Time to DriveThe cooler weather in the fall provides a wide variety of color in vegetation, just before winter snows closes the passes.

High SeasonMay - October. Summer temperatures on the South Rim are relatively pleasant. Inner canyon temperatures are extreme, however. Daytime highs at the river often exceed 100 F/38 C. North Rim summer temperatures are cooler than the South Rim.

Off SeasonWinter conditions at the South Rim can be extreme. Expect snow, icy roads and trails, and possible road closures. In such cases entrance fees are not refundable. The North Rim is closed during the winter.

Shoulder SeasonSpring and fall weather is extremely unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather at those times of year.

Information was obtained by permission from www.byways.org.

This is a motorcycle ride in the state of Arizona. This motorcycle route has 7 scenery characteristics and other road conditions to help you plan your road trip. This motorcycle map was created by OpenRoadRider in February. Click here to see other Motorcycle Roads by OpenRoadRider

Rider Photos:

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Best Time to Go

Spring, Summer, Fall

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Previous Comments from other Riders:

I went there in 2010 and again this year both times in late May. Just like you said gaze and the North Rim Of the Grand Canyon in aww. I hope to go back soon thanks for sharring the pics. liltabascoMon Aug 12, 2013 at 8:14 PM